A little dog which was attacked by another one while being walked in Melton could lose his sight in one eye as appeals were repeated for witnesses to come forward to the incident.

The Melton Times last week reported details of the attack on Maltese Shih Tzu, Billy, which took place near the Tesco Express store in Nottingham Road and is thought to have involved a Bullmastiff-cross.

His anguished owners, Peter and Edna Field, who live on the Fairmead Estate, initially feared their beloved five-year-old dog would lose his eye after being mauled and bitten by the larger animal.

Mr Field said today (Monday): “I have taken Billy to the Vets this morning, and, while there are no guarantees, it appears that the eye is trying to repair itself.

“This is on the outside, and the vet said that even if the external look improves, there is still uncertainty as to whether Billy will be able to see out of it.

“Only time, and the care and brilliance shown by all at Melton Vets will tell.”

The couple reported the incident to the police and have put up posters appealing for witnesses to the attack, which happened on the evening of October 18 as the couple walked Billy and their other Shih Tzu, Alfie, who slipped his lead and escaped uninjured as the other dog attacked.

Mr Field appealed for anyone who saw the incident to tell the police because he fears other dogs, or young children, might be at risk of being attacked.

He added: “Our other concern, of course, has to be that the owner of the attacking dog has not yet been identified.

“He and his dog are, in our minds, still a threat to local people and animals. He must be found.

“He claimed to have been bitten on his right hand by his own dog when he helped to get him off Billy.”

The Fields say they heard four or five reports from other owners of small dogs which have been attacked by other dogs while being walked in Melton.

Did you see the incident? Has your dog been attacked by another dog? Telephone the Melton Times on 01664 412520 if you have any information.